Piano Day: Feb. 16, 2018

Department of Music

Preparing students for careers in music, including performance, industry, and education.

About the Department

We foster the development of musical talent and prepare you for careers in the music industry or music education. Wayne State provides a rich musical experience for all students and contributes to the musical life of the community and state, as well as the college. Whether you are a music major or want to take part in music as an extracurricular activity, you have a variety of musical selections to choose from: marching band, orchestra, jazz band, and other smaller ensembles, as well as concert choir, Mariachi, Madrigal Singers, and show choir.

In addition to so many chances for musical involvement, Wayne State has several excellent facilities used for performances. The beautiful Peterson Fine Arts Building is home to the Lied Performing Arts Center and Ramsey Theatre, which seats nearly 700 spectators and helps performers gain a better understanding of the necessary scale of projection required to fill a large house. Peterson also houses numerous classrooms and practice rooms for the variety of musical groups or if you need a quiet space to practice your instrument or vocal talent. Ley Theatre in the Brandenburg Education Building lends a classic atmosphere to productions and seats just over 300, a perfect venue for faculty and student recitals, and other smaller performances.

Helpful Links

“The music faculty are so extremely talented, and they have faculty recitals, so we get to see their talent, which is amazing. I just love being able to have the chance to perform myself. We have student recitals every week, which gives students a chance to perform. I love going to concerts here because they're just beautiful, every one.”

Rebecca Bonsall

Minor: MusicHometown: Norfolk, Neb.

Music Programs

Choose from our music department majors, or enhance your education by adding on a second major or minor. Explore your options here.

“Welcome to the Department of Music at Wayne State College! With more than 75 annual student performances and 14 performing ensembles, we offer numerous opportunities for students to pursue their passion in music. World-class faculty and a student-to-faculty ratio of 9 to 1 create a vibrant and inspired environment as students continue on their musical journey at WSC. Additional opportunities such as international travel, performance scholarships, and active student organizations provide an education that extends beyond the classroom. The Department of Music is a special place to study and perform music – please check us out!”

David Bohnert, Ph.D.Department ChairProfessor of Music, Director of Bands, Conductor

Outside the Classroom

At Wayne State College, you’ll have opportunities to enhance your education by participating in clubs, organizations, performing groups, music festivals, and more.

Clubs and Organizations

National Association for Music Education (NAfME) - a collegiate chapter of the national organization, which provides opportunities for professional preparation and networking through conferences, guest speakers, and service/social functions

Kappa Kappa Psi – an honorary band fraternity that provides service to the band program and the Department of Music

Internships/Clinicals

At WSC, you’ll get the opportunity to perform recitals and other various performances to build your portfolio and gain experience in this field of study. If you’re an education major, you’ll need to complete clinical practice (student teaching). Career Services is also available to help you find internship opportunities.

Learn from the Best

Our faculty are accomplished, with 85% of our full-time faculty having the highest degree in their field. Several are highly regarded as experts and have been recognized with notable honors and awards. And with a low student-to-faculty ratio, you'll be sure to receive an excellent education in a personalized setting with a friendly atmosphere.